Napoleonic Wargame Club
Newsletter
Edition 12 - December 2000
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Publisher: Pierre Desruisseaux |
Editor: Ken Jones, British Army |
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Associate Editors: |
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Rob Hamper, Prussian Army |
Tom Simmons, French Army |
In this Issue ...
Dear Members:
Hmm. "Better late than never," as the old saying goes. For the first time in two years I have missed a publication deadline. I really have no excuse except to say that work, family, and opponents kept me from my editing duties. All good reasons I think. So, without further adieu (or rambling) I invite you to enjoy the latest club news.
This issue features a great article by historian Chris Kolakowski, who works for the U.S. National Park Service at the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Battlefield Park in Virginia, USA. Chris gave a talk to a local battlefield protection group about the similarities between Napoleon's 1815 Waterloo Campaign and Robert E. Lee's 1863 Gettysburg Campaign. I thought this topic would be of tremendous interest to our members so I asked Chris if he would write something for the newsletter. He graciously agreed. Naturally I could offer him nothing but a chance to get his ideas organized and 'out there' to be discussed by others who are interested in the subject and might know a little about history. So, I want to first thank Chris for his efforts on our behalf and also to implore the membership to provide feedback to Chris (or myself) about his article. Our feedback is Chris' only compensation. I am sure Chris eventually would like to improve the article and have it published in a historical journal sometime in the future.
Now, I if could stand on my soapbox for just a minute. Gentlemen, the editorial staff truly hopes you enjoy what we have done with the newsletter. It has become much more than just a posting of army news. For several issues now we have solicited interviews and articles from some real historians, game developers, and others for our club's benefit. Believe me when I say that putting this all together takes a tremendous effort and a great deal of time. However, some on the staff have felt that the response to these efforts has been somewhat subdued. If for no other reason but to provide us motivation, we need to hear from you regarding your feelings about the newsletter (even if it is faint praise or condemnation). Otherwise, I fear these unique feature articles may just stop coming or the authors of these articles will find alternative outlets for their efforts (What? No Grapeshot column this quarter?).
Ok, back to the battlefields. I cannot report on the results of the French and Anglo-Allied fighting this quarter because 'Mad Dog' Travers' PC got smathered by round shot from a French battery (or was it a British one?). My own personal experience would suggest, though, that the French were getting the best of it, except in that still on-going Westphalian Tournament where the Russians keep claiming victory after victory for the allied side. You may check the Tournament
web site for up-to-date results. In other quarters, the Anglo-Allied Tournament is now in full swing and we should be able to bring you the results from that contest next time. Again, many thanks to all the officers who have helped make these events possible.In the meantime, there are plenty of battles to be fought. Enjoy the camaraderie, keep your honor intact, and if you have tasted defeat lately, remember General Desaix, who, after reaching the plains of Marengo and assessing the situation, turned to Napoleon and said, "This battle is completely lost. However, ... there is time to win another."
Tally Ho!
Your Humble and Obedient Servant,
K. Jones, Editor
Strategy and Tactics | Dispatches | Regimental Histories | On the Internet | Letters to the Editor
In this Issue ...
by Christopher L. Kolakowski
Napoleon, the Musical:
A Review
by Bill Peterson
On 22 November 2000, Juan Rios and I met in London for the express purpose of attending and evaluating this play from the perspective of seasoned Napoleonic enthusiasts. Herewith, then, are my impressions. Juan helped greatly with the brainstorming during the intermission and at The Grenadier pub afterward, but he should not be held responsible for any foolishness I may write!
First, a short synopsis of the plot.
Act I: 1795-1804
Having quelled the Revolution, the Directors are fraternizing with aristocrats at a glittering ball. Young republican general Napoleon Bonaparte crashes the party to protest that his promised command has been sold to the aristocratic General Montenotte. He is dazzled by the beauteous Rose de Beauharnais, and in spite of her misgivings at the mismatch of their ages and backgrounds, he impetuously woos and wins her. After seven days together he leaves her to lead his army over the Alps to glory. The sinister ministers Talleyrand, Fouché, and Garrau plot to overthrow the Directory, ensnaring the naïve but idealistic pamphleteer Lucien Bonaparte in order to exploit his brother's popularity and prowess. Napoleon returns from campaign to find Josephine in a compromising position with an old boyfriend, Hippolyte Charles. Shocked at her apparent infidelity, Napoleon loses trust in Josephine. He plunges into the conspiracy leading to the coup d'état of 18 Brumaire. The sovereigns of Europe, repeatedly bested by Napoleon on the field of battle, have their agents attempt his assassination by infernal machine. Napoleon, seeing himself as the indispensable leader, turns more and more to absolutism and an addiction to military glory. When Lucien tries to recall Napoleon to democracy, his brother has him imprisoned and exiled. Napoleon is crowned Emperor in a lavish ceremony at Notre-Dame.
Act II: 1809-1815
Napoleon, at the height of his power and pride, divorces the barren Josephine and marries Marie-Louise in order to found a dynasty. He invades Russia, dreaming of establishing a vast oriental empire like a new Alexander, while the sinister ministers enrich themselves at the expense of the people. The campaign turns to disaster, the Grande Armée perishes on the retreat from Moscow, Napoleon falls from power. A dying Josephine speaks with Lucien, who returns from exile to comfort her in her last hours. Upon Napoleon's return from Elba, too late to reunite with Josephine, he hears her last words of love and forgiveness transmitted by Lucien. He goes on to Waterloo, defeat, death, and legend.
Comments
John Julius Norwich, in his well-written program notes under the title, History, Truth and the Stage boldly addresses the need for the authors to be allowed "certain liberties," notably the telescoping of time, in translating such an extraordinary story into a musical. A deal of liberties were taken in telescoping and simplifying characters, as well. Paul Barras, such a key historical figure as Napoleon's sponsor and Josephine's ex-lover, is absent apart from a few qualities subsumed in the character of arch-conspirator Talleyrand. Josephine's children Eugène and Hortense are invisible. This allows Josephine to be plausibly played by an actress too young to have teenage children, at the cost of omitting the complex and potentially illuminating facets of Napoleon as stepfather and Josephine as mother. Mother Letizia and six of the seven Bonaparte siblings, with their famous hostility to Josephine, also do not appear. The Lucien character does reflect some of the actions and characteristics of his historical counterpart, but stands principally as a symbol of Napoleon's modest origin and republican conscience, plaintively calling the great man to turn from vainglory and power-lust and re-embrace what was best and simplest in his life, notably his love for Josephine.
Of the many compromises and distortions, or "liberties" employed by the authors, I was most pained by the use of the name "Montenotte" for the character of the arrogant aristocratic general. With all of the possible French and French-sounding names to choose from, why confuse the public by turning a battlefield into a person? I was less offended by the transposition of the crossing of the Great-St-Bernard from 1800 into the 1796 campaign. The Alps nicely symbolize the "mountain" of difficulties facing General Bonaparte, and allow for some clever stage effects.
Some things are done very well, indeed. In the number "The Dream Within" in Act I, which shows Napoleon fraternizing with and inspiring his weary troops, an essential element of his charisma and the genuine affection troops felt for "le petit caporal" is beautifully portrayed. The dual staging of the song "Waiting and Hoping" in Act II in which brightly-lighted wives and sweethearts sing of their loved ones while the gray-lighted soldiers gradually collapse into the Russian snow is a moving testimonial to the personal and communal tragedy of war. The portrayal of the stiff-necked, weak-minded monarchs of Britain, Russia, Prussia, and Austria in "The Royal Chorus of Disapproval" is hilarious and, from a francophilic perspective, highly appropriate.
The casting of Anastia Barzee as Josephine is brilliant; in her makeup and period gowns she truly resembles the portraits of Josephine, and she carries the role with a grace of movement and voice that makes Napoleon's passion for her quite believable. Uwe Kröger as Napoleon lacks nothing for intensity, but I was missing an element of humor and "joie de vivre" that should be part of the character.
The music is fitting, adequate, even moving at times, but without any truly gripping number that remains in the mind long after leaving the theatre.
In all, Napoleon, the Musical is a noble effort, well worth seeing for all its flaws. Those who wish to enrich their lives with this theatrical experience would be well-advised to book soon, however. The sparse attendance at the 22 November performance probably forebodes an early closing date and a very slim chance of another major production for years to come.
Further information can be found at www.napoleonthemusical.com.
Bill Peterson
The Front Page | Feature Articles | Dispatches | Regimental Histories | On the Internet | Letters to the Editor
In forming the plan of a campaign, it is requisite to foresee everything the enemy may do, and to be prepared with the necessary means to counteract it.
Plans of campaign may be modified ad infinitum according to circumstances, the genius of the general, the character of the troops, and the features of the country..
Napoleon's Maxim of WarII
In this Issue ...
The next two reports are brought to you by Major Doug Hocking of the Brunswick Lancers. Doug has an excellent website that presents a fine history of the Duke of Brunswick and his troops. It also boasts Doug's campaign history (as a Brunswicker). The presentation is excellent with lots of colorful battle maps, pictures, etc. I recommend these action reports very highly. I even tried to bring them to the newsletter but the files were simply too large to reproduce here.
By GdDJeff Bardon and BG Muddy Jones
The authors of this article are two of six players in a MP game of Ligny Unleashed. Having been unable in the early going to force a river crossing, the French tried to turn the Prussian right upriver. But 2 Prussian full brigades, the 5th and the 2nd, were there to meet them and crossed the river themselves to assail the French left flank. The ensuing combat on this front left one General shocked and teetering in his saddle. We believe the action provides a superb illustration of how even a small flaw in a troop formation can be exploited by an able opponent and lead to devastating results. Let's pick up the action ...
It is turn 7 and the Prussian wing commander had decided to drive back the French left wing who seemed intent on crossing the Ligny river upstream from St. Armand. To accomplish this, the Prussian commander pushed four fresh regiments (the 25th and 28th Infantry Reg'ts and the 2nd and 5th Westphalian Landwehr Reg'ts) across the Ligny stream, intending to carry the fight to the French. To meet the threat, the French commander had at his disposal the infantry of the 7e, 8e and 11e divisions, along with Domon's cavalry.
The Prussian advance was daunting but in the center of the Prussian line was one minor mistake - a lone skirmisher unit in clear terrain, unsupported by the zone of control of any formed battalion. This replay is intended as a case study on that small error, how even the smallest thing can be exploited to your advantage. The coming assault hinges on cavalry for success, but will also require some misdirection.
This is the scene after the French moves. Infantry columns totaling 8 battalions have been deployed against the 3 Prussian units on the right. A further 2 battalions hold position on the ridge left of center. It is hoped that these battalions at close range will misdirect the enemy to the real danger. Lurking behind the French lines are a pair of cavalry squadrons. If the Prussians form even one square then the cavalry will be unable to get into the rear.
As you can see, the Prussians did not form square. They instead taunted the French as their lines fired volleys. The French columns held their fire waiting for the melees. The cavalry charge overran the lone skirmish unit and broke through the enemy center, taking the positions shown. Then came the melees.
The Aftermath:
In this and the succeeding turn, nearly 5,000 Prussians were either captured or otherwise put out of action. The remainder of the brigade is isolated or disordered. Although the French have committed the bulk of their reserves, by the following round a full division had crossed the stream and were ready to continue their hard fought advance. But the battle was still young ...
La Bataille de Quatre-Bras
Lt. J. S. Tessier, 1er Carabinier
This summer I came about the notion to moderate a multi-player game that I felt would prove interesting and challenging to all players of Talonsoft's Battleground series, and so went about recruiting players and, based on their OOB choices and directions, created a home-brewed yet historically viable scenario of Prelude to Waterloo. Twenty intrepid players rose to the cause and volunteered for commands. What makes this truly exciting is that at least 9 different countries are represented as well as all Battleground Napoleonic clubs, not just the NWC.
This game has come about from a desire to broaden command and control elements of a standard Battleground game and to put these in the hands of a diversity of players. The volatile interactions of the players among themselves and with the virtual troops they each command has been what has set this game apart from others. So far we have not been disappointed as misunderstandings, second guessing, and even a harsh word here and there has kept things interesting between active players.
The battle thus far...
The battle opened historically enough with General Perponcher's 2nd Dutch-Belgian Division defending the vital crossroads from the French II Corps. For their part the French drove aggressively forward and have steadily advanced up the Brussels road leading with their most powerful division, Bonaparte's 6eme, on a wide front, while Pire's cavalry has been sent eastwards scouting towards Piramont.
The Allied withdrawal has been expertly handled by General Perponcher, methodically pulling the Dutch-Belgians back and now anchoring the division between the Bois de Bossu and the Gemioncourt Farm. Indeed casualties have been slight thus far, the Allies having suffered 325 men lost and the French 600 men. This is principally due to the Allied withdrawal from Bonaparte's infantry which has left no weakness for the French to exploit. French attempts to deploy their powerful artillery have been frustrated by the controlled retreat of their enemy.
On the right of the French line, a valiant, but ill advised, cavalry attack on Piramont has successfully wrested control of the hamlet from one hundred or so intrepid infantrymen of the 27th Dutch Regiment.
Otherwise, both Wellington and Ney are rushing their troops into the fray jockeying for an advantage over their opponents. This is the situation at 4:00pm Turn 9.
Comments on the game have been positive with players noting that the verbal sparring amongst co-commanders being as much of a highlight as taking on the enemy. As the Moderator I would like to share a few observations. First, it is rather evident, that the game progresses at a much slower pace than a standard Battlegound game. Dispatching instructions from the army commander, to the corps, to the division and then on to the brigades requires planning, foresight and a good deal of patience. No longer are one's forces an expert and speedy killing machine reacting at the merest whim of their superior commander. Secondly, the cult of personality is in full swing as players, perhaps uncomfortable with taking orders, are now under the command of strong willed individuals, with all the predictable sparks flying. And finally, because players describe their unit orders to an unbiased Moderator, proper and logical formation integrity has been preserved as there is no longer the inducement of a chance opportunity to lure a unit into a gamey and otherwise unhistorical move.
I certainly hope that my players are enjoying themselves, for this moderator most assuredly is, and I would encourage anyone who's interest has been peeked to participate.
For those of you interested in more information, rules are available at
http://home.inreach.com/jtessier/index.htm and Aides-de-Camp (observers) are always welcome.
J. S. Tessier
Lt. J. S. Tessier, 1er Carabinier
The Front Page | Feature Articles | Strategy and Tactics | Dispatches | On the Internet | Letters to the Editor
Officers of the French and Allied armies! Welcome to our Regimental Histories section! Your researched biographies or regimental histories are hereby solicited for submission. If accepted, you may earn an award or mention in dispatches. At the minimum, you can join us for a flagon or two at the Rhine Tavern....our thanks go out to this month's contributors, with a special mention to artist Romain Baulesch for his kind permission to use the image (below) from Osprey Publishing's Campaign Series 33 by Ian Castle.
Click on the image to go to the Regimental History Section.
This month we present following regimental histories:
click on image to go to regimental histories
The Front Page | Feature Articles | Strategy and Tactics | Letters to the Editor
To act upon lines far removed from each other, and without communications, is to commit a fault which always gives birth to a second.
Napoleon's Maxim of War XI
Anglo-Allied Army | La Grande Army | Prussian Army | Russian Army | Austrian Army
Gentlemen:
Below are listed the Army Orders for the month of August, following resignations and other commitments there has had to be a re-shuffle of the commanding officers of certain Divisions and Brigades, I would like to personally thank all those fellow officers who have contributed to the smooth running of this Army, when they feel they have the spare time to take command again, PLEASE do not hesitate to contact my Headquarters. Please take time to introduce yourself to your new commanding officer and visa-versa.
Army Orders
Col. Elric Williams, Cavalry Corps Commander, to Reserves
Brig. Gen. Ken 'Muddy' Jones,
K.G., to Commanding Officer, Cavalry CorpsCol. Phillip Roubard, 8th Belgian Hussars, Commanding Officer, Dutch-Belgian Division
Col. Neil Henderson to Commanding Officer, 6th Division
Col. Jack Nazor to Commanding Officer, 5th Division
Ladies and Gentlemen: George, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and of the British Dominions beyond the seas, King, Defender of the Faith, does hereby order the promotion of the following officers for their continued success against the French and for their diligent discharge of their duties:
New Commissions
Lt. Michael Davies to 12th Prince of Wales Light Dragoons
Capt. (bvt.) Doug Hocking to Brunswick Kavallerie Brigade
Lt. Mike Rea to 1st Line Battalion, King's German Legion
Lt. M. Nelms to 78th Regiment, Ross-shire Buffs
Lt. Robert Thoyts to 11th Light Dragoons
Lt. Vaughn Brameley to 16th Light Dragoons
Lt. Kodama to 32nd Regiment of Foot
Lt. Bob Breen to First Foreign Battalion
Lt. Marco Bijl to Battalion Nationale Militie No. 8
Lt. Alan Taylor to Brunswick Lancers
Lt. Manka to 5th Line Battalion, King's German Legion
Lt. David Hatch to 8th Line Battalion, King's German Legion
Lt. Rick Nettleton to 37th Regiment of Foot
Promotions
Lt. Hans de Visser, 4th Dutch Lt. Dragoons, to Captain, to Major
Capt. Robert Thoyts, 11th Lt. Dragoons, Major
Lt. Col. Greg Hanbach, 1st Reg't of Foot, to Colonel
Lt. Col. Ian Travers, 2nd Dragoons (Scots Greys) to Colonel
Lt. Col. Neil Henderson, 6th Division, to Colonel
Lt. Col. Jack Nazor, 5th Division, to Colonel
Lt. Col. Phillip Roubard, 8th Belgain Hussars, to Colonel
Maj. Terry Lubka, 7th Hussars, to Lt. Colonel
Capt. (bvt.) Doug Hocking, Brunswick Kavallerie Brigade, to Major
Brig. Gen. Mick O'Reilly, 4th Infantry Division, to Major General
Ladies and Gentlemen: George, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and of the British Dominions beyond the seas, King, Defender of the Faith, does hereby bestow the following officers with awards for their services with the British Forces, their continued success against the French, and for their diligent discharge of their duties:
Medals and Awards
Meritorious Service Medal
Waterloo Medal
Military General Service Medal
Army Gold Medal
Note: Col. Henderson's bar to the Army Gold Medal is the first to be awarded in the Anglo-Allied Army and as such represents a special honor.
Army Best Shot Medal
Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
The Most Noble Order of the Garter (K.G.)
I have the honour to remain your humble & obedient servant
Paul Harris
Lieut General Sir Paul Harris
L'Armee du Nord
Courier Missing -- Presumed captured by the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry Brigade
L'Armee du Rhin
Dispatch from Army HQ, L'Armee du Rhine:
Note from the Commander:-
The Army HQ has now completed it's generation change (now all 2nd or 3rd generation club members) with Cpt Nivision taking over as my new Aide du Camp. I would like to thank the former staff (Jon Brewitt, Joe Gregory and Toni Andreasson) once more and plan on doing a 'History of AdR, NWC' page in honor of these founders of our glorious Army.
At Osnabrück things are coming to an end and despite a huge collective effort we're still running behind, but we still have a chance of turning the table in the final phase.
My hard working Chief of Staff, General de Brigade Eugene, is working on a new Army page which should be up very soon. I hope you all can forgive us for not having maintained the current one, but instead have used our time and effort to make a new and better one.
Last, my Aide de Camp, Cpt Nivivsion, has setup a new detachment, 'Advanced Recon', which will look in to the various add-ons for play ability, historical accuracy etc.
-Sign.
Gén de Bgde Louis-Nicholas Davout
Promotions:
The following Officers have been promoted to the following ranks and
shall enjoy all privileges and pay associated with their new rank.
Jeff Bardon to General de Division
François Trébosc to General de Division
Zbyszek Pietras to Lt Colonel
Dejan Zupancic to Major
Mark A DeMello to Major
Jerry Nivison to Captain
Stefano Borri to Captain
Grzegorz Maciak to Captain
Richard Barrett to Captain
The following officers have started their training at EdM
Sous Lt Paolo de Bella
Sous Lt. Stewart Stiles
Sous Lt Michael Potts
Sous Lt Troy Bettes
Sous Lt Andrew Murby
Medals & Honours:-
It is with great pride the
'Medaille Militaire' is awarded to the following Officers for their firstvictory.
Lt Col. Zbybek Pietras for his actions against an Anglo-Allied led force.
Captain Stefano Borri for his actions against an Anglo-Allied led force.
Captain Leigh Monk for his actions against an Anglo-Allied led force.
Lt Luis Gonzalez for his actions against an Anglo-Allied led force.
Lt. Martin for his actions against an Anglo-Allied led force.
It is with great pride the '
Order of the Confederation of the Rhine' isawarded to the following Officer.
Capt. Leigh Monk of the 20th Division (Bavarian). VIII Corps.
Special Announcements
Transfers:
Lt Col Tony Bovo and his brother, Maj Dom Bovo, have both been transferred to the AdN. After many months of terrifying the redcoats the Corsican brothers are now about to descend on them from a new direction. Good luck gentleman.
Gén de Bgde Eugené
Chief of Staff
AHQ, L'Armee du Rhine.
Bulletin Officiel des Armées
Armée du Nord -- IIIème Corps d'Armée
6 Nov. 2000
The 3e corps came again to the attention of L'Empereur thanks to the numerous victories (four) and flags it brought back home!
By Imperial Decree:
--Sous-Lieutenant Oakford is promoted Lieutenant and is put in command of the 9ème Chasseurs à Cheval, 1e brigade, 3e division de cavalerie legere.
--Sous-Lieutenant Erickson is promoted Lieutenant and is put in command of the 58ème Régiment d'Infanterie de Ligne, 1e brigade, 11e division.
--Capt. Aymonier-Ameline is promoted Chef d'Escadron (Major) with immediate effect.
--Maj. Aymonier-Ameline is made Baron d'Empire and put in command of the 1er/4e Voltigeurs de la 2e Division d'Infanterie de la Jeune Garde, Garde Imperiale. Congratulations!
For their bravour in face of the Enemy, the following officers are awarded La Croix de la Valeur (Valour Cross) (worth 10 points):
--Maj.Baron Aymonier-Ameline
For their application in their duty and the management of their unit, the following officers have been awarded 5 points:
-- Capt. Worthington
-- Lt. Morgan
For their excellent report and behaviour on the front, the following officers are awarded 5 points:
-- Lt Rodriguez
-- Lt Thayer
For their support in the corps development, the following officers have been awarded 5 points:
-- Maj. Aymonier-Ameline
The following officers are placing in Reserve and stripped of their command:
-- Lt Geiger (requested)
-- Lt Olszowy (AWOL)
2 Oct. 2000
This month the 3e corps can proudly announce two victories against the Enemy!
By Imperial Decree:
-- Sous-Lieutenant Thayer is promoted Lieutenant and is put in command of the 21e Régiment d'Infanterie de Ligne, 1e brigade, 11e division.
-- Sous-Lieutenant Rodriguez is promoted Lieutenant and is put in command of the 12e Régiment d'Infanterie de Ligne, 1e brigade, 11e division.
-- Lt Worthington is promoted Capitaine with immediate effect Lt Morgan is promoted to the command of the 1st brigade, 11e division.
For their application in their duty and the management of their unit, the following officers have been awarded 5 points:
-- Capt. Worthington
-- Lt. Morgan
For their support in the corps development, the following officers have been awarded 5 points:
-- Lt. Krygier
The following officers are placing in Reserve and stripped of their command:
-- Lt Marchandier
-- Maj Amma
The following officers did not qualify from the training and are placed in Reserve:
-- Ss-Lt Nooney
1 Sept. 2000
Summer was excellent and L'Empereur is proud of the 3e corps!
By Imperial Decree:
-- Sous-Lieutenant Herrington is promoted Lieutenant and is put in command of the 70e Régiment d'Infanterie de Ligne, 2e brigade, 10e division.
-- Lt-Col Gatto is promoted Colonel with immediate effect
-- Lt Aymonier-Ameline is promoted Capitaine with immediate effect
-- For his excellent behaviour facing the enemy of La Nation, and his numerous victories, Col. Gatto is made Baron d'Empire and put in command of the 1st Garde d'Honneur, Cavalerie de la Jeune Garde, Garde Imperiale. Congratulations!
For their application in their duty and the management of their unit, the following officers have been awarded 5 points:
-- Lt Worthington
-- Capt. Guegan
-- Capt. Aymonier-Ameline
-- Col. Gatto
For their first major victory against the Enemy, the following officers are awarded La Médaille Militaire:
-- Lt Morgan
For their support in the corps development, the following officers have been awarded 5 points:
-- Lt Worthington
Col. Jean-Dennis Martin
Col. Jean-Dennis Martin,
Commanding
Bekanntmachung der Preussischen Armee
Dispatches of the Prussian Army
Armeeschreiber
Courier Missing -- Presumed captured by the Imperial Guard Cavalry
SECOND ARMY OF THE WEST DISPATCH
I. MEMBERSHIP
The Russian Army boasts a current strength of 39 officers and has received 6 new recruits since the last dispatch. In addition, one officer returned to the Tsar's service after several months in Spain under English command. Of the new members, the following have completed training and received their command assignments:
7th Corps:
Podporuchik Dana Scherer: Smolensk Inf Rgt., 12th Division
8th Corps:
Podporuchik Luke Ganesan: Kiev Grenadier Regiment, 2nd Grenadier Division.
4th Cavalry Corps:
Poruchik Juan Pablo Da Cruz
: Novgorov Cuirassiers, 2nd Cuirassier Division. (Rejoining the Tsar's service after serving in the Spanish division of the British Army).Podporuchik Keith Williamson: Baskir Cossacks, Cossack Brigade.
Podporuchik Konstatin Koryakov: Akhtyrka Hussars, 4th Cavalry Division.
Militia (still in training):
Praporschik Peter Prill: 1st Moscow Opolochenie Regiment
Praporschik Serge Rudakov: 2nd Moscow Opolochenie Regiment
Praporschik Alex Vodusskii: 4th Moscow Opolochenie Regiment
Resignations:
Podporuchik John Scarborough has resigned his commission to take up service in the Prussian Army.
II. BATTLE HONORS\DECORATIONS\PROMOTIONS
The Russian Army enjoyed great success on the battlefield in the last four months, posting eleven major and three minor victories since the last dispatch:
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Individual Honors:
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Generalmajor Peter Yrureta
Commander, 4th Cavalry Corps
Battle Honors:
Major victory in game 092 (12 turns).
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Polkovnik Karl Schneider
Chief of Staff, Second Army of the West
Decorations:
In recognition of achieving five victories in NIR/Eylau scenarios against the french invader, Polkovnik Karl Schneider is awarded the Order of St. George.
Battle Honors:
Major victory in game #217 - NIR scenario 7a: Kutusov Turns to Fight (Shively modified) (20/48 turns). French casualties: 28,885 (I), 10,025 (C), 304 (A), 58 leaders worth 578 points. Russian casualties: 18,200 (I), 6,800 (C), 97 (A), 5 leaders worth 24 points. The game ended with the French Guard hesitating before strong Russian forces in a reverse slope defense at the Utiza Mound before the Emperor ordered a withdrawal.
Minor victory in game #0027 - the February 8th Eylau scenario (26/48 turns). The French withdrew after artillery ammunition on both sides was exhausted and upon the realization that Ney's arrival would be too late in the day to have an impact. The Russian line was pushed back by several large cavalry charges led by Murat but no breaches were opened. Davout's arrival on the Russian left sorely strained the Russian defenses but a deperate cavalry charge destroyed the bulk of Davout's guns, making further advance impossible. Both sides fought with extreme gallantry. French casualties: 19,025 (I), 10,850 (C), 55 (A), 20 leaders worth 155 points including Marshal Bessieres(w). Russian casualties: 17,225 (I), 9,225 (C), 125 (A), 7 leaders worth 82 points.
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Podpolkovnik Ruben Lopez:
Commandant, Militia
Decorations:
In recognition of achieving ten victories against the french invader, Podpolkovnik Ruben Lopez is awarded the coveted Order of Franz Joseph. Congratulations to this officer!
Battle Honors:
Major victory in his match in the ongoing Westphalian Campaign:
The French forces under Maréchal Ney had advanced on Westphalia. My mission was to lead a Russian contingent to stop them and push them back. We had occupied a good defensive ground, anchored on the Kolocha in the South and the woods in the North. The shallow Voina stream separated our position from the French. A hill on each side of the stream gave good positions for the guns. The French positioned themselves on the other side of the stream, with a grand battery on a hill. Small forces occupied the Smolensk road in the South and the town of Bezzubovo in the North.
Our troops quickly advanced on Bezzubovo and drove away the small contingent of Poles there, taking the town and entering the woods. They expulsed the defenders from there, causing them many losses and capturing a Horse Battery. The 12th and the 26th Div, plus the 2nd Grenadiers and the Moscow Opolochnie, took positions there with 60 guns and proceeded to punish the Poles with gunfire. Later the Cossacks captured two Horse Batteries and surrounded about 300 Polish skirmishers, which were captured or killed by our Jagers.
A strong charge by the French cavalry resulted on the loss of 2.000 men, including 3 Gren. Bns. and GM Chantilov, but the counterattack by our cavalry resulted in severe losses to their horse and the situation was restored. The front stabilized, with our skirmisher exchanging fire with the enemy infantry on top of the hill, while our men were protected by the slope. The rest of the 4th Cav. Corps and the 2nd Cuir. Brigade were sent there to form a reserve against further cavalry attacks.
In the South, the French launched a first attack on Borodino, which was repulsed by the 27th Div. Our batteries in the hill caused them great loss. Successive assaults by the Westphalians and a reinforcement of Poles were also repulsed with the help of the Conv. Grenadiers. The French massed a great number of guns on their side of the stream. They hurt our infantry, but also fell in great numbers to flank fire from our batteries. The fight was very bloody. One group of some 700 Westphalians led by GL Damas reached the town, but there they were surrounded and forced to surrender. The rest of the assaulters ran away leaving many dead on the field. Our men were very weary, though, and I was forced to send the Smolensk Opolochnie, our last infantry reserve, there to drive away their Westphalian Jagers and allow some rest to our other men.
As they were unable to take Borodino, the French shifted their attack again to the North. A big mass of enemy cavalry, numbering about 3.000 of their best horse, advanced to within 100 yards of our skirmisher line and prepared for a charge on our infantry below the hill. Some 2.500 Polish infantry also closed on our infantry. Our Jagers fired at them and felled some horsemen, while our guns dropped many Poles. The enemy troopers prepared to charge, but when they approached the edge of the hill they discovered that all the front was defended by our brave infantry, and behind them there were our terrible batteries and 4.000 of our horsemen ready to counterattack. Their commander found no hope of success, and retreated their men from our lines.
Shortly afterwards came a courier from the French commander offering to surrender his sword.
---------------------
Major victory in Game #444 (14 turns) in which the French forces advancing towards Ligny were been repulsed with heavy losses. The French launched a quick and strong attack against the villages with The II, III and IV Corps. The fierceness of the assault surprised the defenders, who suffered the surrounding and capture of several bns. St. Armand was taken and Ligny resisted with difficulty. However, the fatigued French forces fell under heavy fire from the Prussian batteries, which caused them to rout and retreat. This allowed the Prussians to reorder their defense and to keep Ligny firmly. The French launched their cavalry to the fight, but their 6th cav. division was trapped and eliminated by the Prussian fire near Ligny. At the same time, a surprise attack by 200 heroic Landwehr troopers eliminated 3 French batteries, including one of the Guard, which weakened very much the French attack on Ligny.
St. Amand LeHaye had fallen but our troops kept a hold on the village despite the repeated French assaults. The fight in St. Amand was limited to a deadly gunfire exchange and a few French tries to cross the river, which were promptly repealed with heavy losses. Ligny was safe and the I Korps Kavallerie even crossed the river to harass the back of the enemy lines, capturing several wagons and some infantry before they were engaged by the III Corps cavalerie.
With the arrival of the II Korps the Prussian line was strengthened and some local counterattacks were launched. But French reinforcements were arriving too: the I Corps threatened our right flank, the Garde Jeune advanced towards Ligny and St. Amand, followed by the VI Corps. But before they could take their positions the Prussian fire opened a hole in the defense of the stream and a Brigade crossed the river and recaptured St. Amand, destroying the French artillery there.
The French command, fearing the enveloping of their forces in St. Amand LeHaye, decided to pull back their forces to avoid their destruction, and abandoned the field in haste. The Corsican ogre was sent back wounded to Paris.
Result: Prussian major victory (turn 14/26; result -457). French losses: 15.850 infantrymen, 3.000 cavalrymen, 74 artillery pieces, 9 leader casualties: Captured (5): Gen. Brig. Schaeffer, Dufour, Vallin and Piat, and one Colonel. Killed and Wounded (4): Gen. Brig. Dupeyroux, Le Capitaine, Desprez and one Colonels. Allied losses: 12.350 infantrymen, 1.200 cavalrymen, 41 artillery pieces, 6 leader casualties: Captured (4): Generalmajor von Pirch II, Major von Hitchtenbrok, Oberslt. Othengraven and one Colonel, Killed (1): Oberst von Kemphen, Wounded (1): Major von Schmidt.
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Shtabs-Kapitan Victor Vityai:
Commander, Second Grenadier Division, VIII Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Shtabs-Kapitan and accepted command of the Second Grenadier Division.
Battle Honors:
Major victory in NIR, Scenario #2 Shevardino Reboubt (18 turns): A complete Russian victory with two French Cavalry Corps and five Infantry Divisions destroyed!
Major victory in game #131 (20 turns): The French armada had suprisingly found the entire Russian army ready to fight on the line of Borodino, Semenoskoe and Utiza. In this modified KTF scenario, the French had at their disposal additional troops consisting of the 17th Polish Division, a fresh Italian Division and two additional Middle Guard divisions. Russians reinforcements to arrive in the afternoon consisted of Wittgenstein's Corps.
The battle began with the strong push of the French along the whole frontline with enveloping maneuvers to encircle the Russians both flanks. The French took Utiza and the Fleches and had made it to the other bank of Kolocha on the far right. However, the Smolensk Militia had stopped the French guard skirmishes in the woods near Utiza mound on the left flank and were timely reinforced by the arrival from the right flank fresh divisions of the 2nd Corps. The Cossacks brigade on the right flank dealt with the Italian and 4th Corps' cavalry leaving a mere 400-500 standing.
Near the Redoubt the Russians long-range batteries were finding their targets and disposing of the French by the hundreds. The same was true at Semenovskoe and the Utiza mound. Strong artillery fire near Utiza covered by the Grenadier Regiments in square destroyed most of the French Guard, which shared the fate of the entire Polish Corps.
Strong artillery fire and stunning cavalry counterattacks decided the fate of the battle with the French capitulating in the middle of 20th turn just before the Russian cavalry was prepared to destroy and capture more than 1000 Cavalry and another 1000 infantry. French casualties: 37,950 (I), 12,825 (C), 175 (A), 27 leaders including Grouchy, 2 additional Gen de Div, 18 Gen de Brigade and 6 Colonels. Russian casualties: 31,350 (I), 9,175 (C), 130 (A), 15 leaders.
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Shtabs-Kapitan Chris Suttles:
Tarnopol Infantry Regiment, 27th Division, VIII Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Shtabs-Kapitan.
Battle Honors:
Major victory in game #347 - NIR scenario 2: Counterattack at Shevardino (18 turns). In an early morning counterattack, Kapitan Suttles expelled the french from the town of Shevardino and the Redoubt while inflicting lopsided casualties on the enemy. French casualties: 10,800 (I), 2,375 (C), 42 (A), 14 leaders worth 191 points and 0 objective hexes. Russian casualties: 2,025 (I), 3,575 (C), 0 (A), 3 leaders worth 31 points.
Minor victory in game C030 (NIR Scenario 16-10/10 turns). French casualties: 9,575 (I), 1,600 (C), 6 (A), 2 leaders; Russian casualties: 8,575 (I), 375 (C), 54 (A), 1 leaders; 0 french objective points.
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Shtabs-Kapitan Jason Cawley:
Vilna Infantry Regiment, 27th Division, VIII Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Shtabs-Kapitan.
Battle Honors:
Minor victory in game #C019 - D'erlon's Assault (5/10 turns completed).
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Shtabs-Kapitan Daniel; Strelnikov:
Fangoria Grenadiers, Second Grenadier Division, VIII Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Shtabs-Kapitan.
Decorations:
In recognition of his first victory in a large NIR/Eylau scenario, Shtabs-Kapitan Daniel Strelnikov has been awarded the Order of St. Anne.
Battle Honors:
Major victory in game #187 (Eylau 22/22 turns). Shtabs-Kapitan Strelnikov reports that after fierce fighting resulted from powerful French infantry & Cavalry attacks, Russian counterattacks in Eylau and around the town ensured that the Russians would hold the 2 main objectives.
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Shtabs-Kapitan Alex Gelfand:
New Ingermanland Infantry Regiment, 12th Division, VII Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Shtabs-Kapitan.
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Kapitan Dilwyn Roberts:
Narva Infantry Regiment, 12th Division, VII Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Kapitan.
Decorations:
In recognition of achieving a crushing victory against the french invader, Kapitan Dilwyn Roberts has been awarded the General Service Medal, Order of St. Anne and coveted Order of Alexander Nevsky. This is the first occasion that an officer has received all three decorations with his first victory.
Battle Honors:
In his first reported game, Podporuchik Dilwyn Roberts scored an impressive victory against the French (C024 - 26 turns) . French casualties: 44,175 (I), 21,725 (C), 355 (A), 114
leaders. Russian casualties: 45,800 (I), 19,100 (C), 154 (A), 44 leaders.
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Kapitan Juan Pablo da Cruz:
Novgorod Regiment, 2nd Currassier Division, IV Cavalry Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Kapitan.
Decorations:
In recognition of his first victories in NIR scenarios (10 turn minimum), Kapitan Juan Pablo da Cruz has been awarded the General Service Medal.
Battle Honors:
Major victory in game #061 (10 turns).
Major victory in game #064 (13 turns).
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Poruchik Andy Lane:
Chernigov Dragoons, 4th Cavalry Division, IV Cavalry Corps
Promotions:
Promoted to Poruchik
.
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LONG LIVE THE TSAR!
Polkovnik Karl Schneider
Chief of Staff
Second Army of the West
Austrian Army News
Happy Birthday Der Armee Austeriche!
The Austrian army is one year old this month (November). Thanks to all that have made the Austrian army a great place to command and fight the French!
Recruiting - FML Sam Orlando joined the Austrian army. He transferred from the Prussian army. FML Orlando is commanding the Brigade Wintzingerode.
Most active officer award goes to Major Bruno Nackaerts! He had four battles conclude during this period. Great work sir!
Oberst BG Schlueter finished his Advanced Course in the Vienna Military Academy. His major subject was cavalry. He is ready to go after the French!
Oberst Pete Keller finished the 'Academy this month and has been formally approved to fight the dreaded Napoleon and his lackeys.
November is our annual Recruitment month. Each officer gets an extra 5 points for each recruit they bring into the army. Try and invite someone to join up this month.
Bill Peters
FM Bill Peters,
Austrian CoA
The Front Page | Feature Articles | Strategy and Tactics | Regimental Histories | Dispatches | Letters to the Editor
There is a heck of a lot of stuff our there on the web for those interested in Napoleon and the Napoleonic Wars. More than we can possibly put in the newsletter. A few of the more interesting sites that we have come across are described below. We encourage members to share their favorite sites as well (just drop one of us a line). KJ
The Napoleon Shoppe -- This site is run by one of our own members (Richard Barrett, AdN) and offers a host of Napoleonic curios and trinkets (like key chains, coffee mugs, T-shirts). But the real offering here is Richard's Napoleonic stamp collection. The rumor is that there are more images of Napoleon on stamps of the world than of any other individual, excepting Jesus and Queen Elizabeth. The Napoleon Shoppe's stamp collection of Napoleon's portraits, battle scenes, weddings, meetings and treaties, coronation, demise etc. etc. totals about 450 stamps. Surf on over and take a peek. (Richard said he would give me a Napoleonic bookmark if I mentioned his site).
The Napoleon Series -- Some sites are so interesting you just have to keep going back. I was just perusing the Napoleon Series again and thought I would suggest it's Review Section. This section is dedicated to evaluating Napoleonic books (in and out-of-print), magazines, miniatures, games, periodicals, web sites, and CD ROM's. Good reviews. Submit one of your own.
The Front Page | Feature Articles | Strategy and Tactics | Regimental Histories | Dispatches
If you have something to contribute or would like comment on any aspect of the newsletter or the NWC, then feel free to write a letter to the editor (
paula.ken@erols.com). However, this newsletter reserves the right to ignore, edit, delete and/or refuse to publish any letter received if it is deemed to be inappropriate or worthless. All letters absolutely must include the name of the author and his/her e-mail address or they will not be posted. KJ
----- Original Message -----
From: M. E. <
To: <paula.ken@erols.com>
Sent: Saturday, September 16, 2000 3:05 AM
Subject: Error in August Newsletter
> Bonjour SIR!>
> I bring to your attention the final picture of the August newsletter and > would like to point out to you and most of the Anglais speaking world that:
>> THE OLD GUARD DID NOT SURRENDER!!
>> After covering themselves in Glory, protecting the advance rearward of > Napoleon and our martially embarrassed force, it was a request they curtly > turned down. Followed shortly after by flights of Valkyries transporting
> most of them to Valhalla. > Damned victors think they can re-write history without regard to facts!
>> Lt Micheal Ellwood.
> 14e Ligne, > 17 Div, > V Corps, > Armee du Rhine
>
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